The magic of Disney storytelling combined with the artistry of the theater is what you’ll find in the new Frozen Live at the Hyperion within Disney’s California Adventure theme park. From the second you enter the Hyperion, expect to be transported to the kingdom of Arendelle.
I was fortunate to be in attendance for the world premiere, and knew I was in for a real treat. The Disney Parks Blog had been showing glimpses into the production, from the stage to innovative technology. This Broadway-level production magically delivered.
Frozen Live at the Hyperion
The story is one we all know well, yet this retelling presents such depth of emotion. The distance between Anna and Elsa and the loss of their parents were brought to life by Tony-nominated director Liesl Tommy and script adaptor Chad Begulein. The emotional intensity brought many to tears (don’t worry, I had Frozen-themed Kleenex in my purse). But Anna’s awkwardness and the Duke of Weselton provide the perfect balance of comic relief.
The songs we all cherish from the Frozen film have been transformed into 6 large production numbers. Solos and duets are now ensembles. Castle staff and townspeople fill the 2,000-seat theater in song, and add another level of connection with the two princesses. A great juxtaposition is served when Elsa sings in solitude from her ice castle.
Photo Credit: Scott Brinegar/Disneyland Resort
Additionally, the technology used with Frozen Live at the Hyperion is truly remarkable. A 2,200 square foot video wall serves as backdrop. The stage features a turntable, moving set pieces and characters. Elsa’s ice spikes jet out from the steps, and her icy staircase pivots as she lets it go. The costuming is also innovative. When Elsa’s dress transforms while atop the staircase, I nudged my neighbor with a “Did you see that?”
For many young guests to the Disneyland Resort, Frozen Live at the Hyperion will be their first experience with live theater. This is the perfect introduction! With a shorter running time of about 45 minutes, guests will be completely enthralled from start to finish. Additionally, the show is very interactive with actors walking up and down aisles and special effects like “snow” falling in the theater. The youngest guests might want to sit further away from the stage to be removed from ice spikes emerging and wolves chasing Anna & Kristoff.
Photo Credit: Scott Brinegar/Disneyland Resort
The Hyperion’s lavish production is one that shouldn’t be missed. Knowing that the previous show, Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular ran for over a decade I am sure Frozen will be transforming Anaheim into Arendelle for some time. Frozen Live at the Hyperion is now open and running up to three shows a day.
Have you seen Frozen Live at the Hyperion? Share your thoughts!
Learn more about Frozen Live at the Hyperion.
Jess Benoit says
I would flip to be able to see Frozen Live!…I mean my kids, my kids would flip. I bet it is amazing to see live, especially the Let It Go song.
Elizabeth O says
This sounds like the perfect outing for kids and their family members. Disney is truly a huge kids hit. 🙂
maria @closetohome says
I am not sure my kids would want to see this but I know I would !! What a fun event
Heather Johnson says
Seeing live shows is always so much fun! This would be fabulous for Frozen fans.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
I hadn’t heard about this show previously. My niece loved Frozen, I’d hazard a guess she could go see this every day if she could.
Debi says
My daughter would lose her mind. She is still obsessed with Frozen and seeing Elsa in person…. yeah it would make her 6 year old dreams come true
Sharon says
What an amazing opportunity for you and your kids! Seeing Frozen live would be awesome for my kids too!
Kristi says
We love to go to live theater and musicals… this one would be so much fun to see… I bet the music is amazing!
Kristen says
How neat! I do love a good live show…even better than the movies!
Allie D. says
My friend saw this show and loved it. He raved about how awesome it is. Can’t wait to go see it! My daughter is a huge fan and can’t wait to go when we visit.
Tami says
I have seen the cartoon movie version over and over and over. I am ready for the live version of it.
Amanda McMahon says
I hadn’t realized they had frozen live now! Awesome~! I’ll need to watch for it to come to Michigan.
Cindy Saeger says
OMG. Who would not love this?!? I am basically in Love with live Disney shows and Frozen is one of my all time faves! Great pics too!
Ellen Christian says
I haven’t seen it yet, but it really does look amazing! I’ll have to see if it comes near me.
susan says
I am going to miss the Aladdin show, but I am sure this will be amazing. I have herd nothing but great things.
Allie D. says
My daughter is a huge Frozen fan! Everything in her room is Elsa and Anna. I would love to take her to watch Frozen live.
Kristina says
oh my goodness! How cool. My girls would flip out to see this!